Why flight delays, cancellations are reducing in Nigeria – Achimugu 

Flight delays and cancellations across Nigeria have seen a notable decline in recent months, according to Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

Achimugu described the current development as “impressive and encouraging,” attributing the improvement to a combination of stabilized operations following the peak festive season and a natural dip in passenger volume.

However, he cautioned that as Nigeria enters the rainy season, travelers should still anticipate some weather-related disruptions in the coming weeks.

Speaking at a ceremony marking Ethiopian Airlines’ 80th anniversary in Lagos, Achimugu noted that a recent Aircraft Acquisition Summit hosted by the Aviation Minister has already yielded signed deals.

These agreements are expected to significantly boost domestic fleet capacity, positioning 2026 to be the most stable year for Nigerian aviation yet.

“Year 2026 will be a better year for aviation in Nigeria as regards to flight disruptions because more aircraft are coming in. Deals have been signed already,” Achimugu said.

He said while some passengers are making good use of the portal provider by the NCAA you address complaints, some still find it difficult to navigate the portal.

He said there is an option of emails and social media passengers can explore to rectify their issues.

On report issued by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) on ticket prices, he said, “the FCCPC did not submit reports to my office. So I don’t know what they found out. All I know is that in December, I disagreed with the reason for the hike in airfares as stated by some operators. You know, they alleged that it was due to taxes. I didn’t agree with that and I still stand by that.”